The Forecasts First lets consider what it means when we use the phrase 'the future of information'? Is it a synonym or near synonym of the 'future of information systems'? Where and what is the difference? In fact, it is much easier to consider the future of information systems than the future of information. In its o l d medieval meaning informat ion was a s y n o n y m for knowledge. In its modern usage one can witness a reduction i n the meaning of this term - a 'dumbing d o w n ' if you like, because now information is a synonym or near synonym for data. However, the o ld meaning still exists. Information science i n its theoretical deliberations does still talk about information as a synonym for knowledge representation or knowl - edge presentation, but i n practice, particularly i n the field of information systems, information means data. There is a tension between the two basic meanings of information: information as knowledge, and information as data. Data is the commodity and concern of information systems; knowledge is much more personal, the domain of the indiv idual . The definitional problem is strictly connected wi th the 'dumbing d o w n ' process that is the real and inevitable consequence of the social f low of information. The mass consumption of information requires that the message is simplified. The distribution of information via a mass media system inevitably results i n the loss of meaning. Knowledge becomes data. Why? Because information systems are only loosely connected w i t h personal knowledge. Because it is a part of an information system, unconnected w i t h personal values. Compare that to the way our memory works - it reduces information, or strictly speaking, selects and filters information. O n l y information connected w i t h personal values, ind iv idua l points of view, philosophy of life, is processed. A l l the rest is abandoned to the round f i l ing cabinet. Information systems process data; people process knowledge.